Muscat: Equestrian sport is nothing new for Oman. Many international events have been held in Oman in the past, including the competition at the 2010 Asian Beach Games, and Oman has successfully taken part in many events held abroad.

Now, Oman's name has become synonymous in the world arena as the nation prepares to chair the International Tent Pegging Federation (formerly known as the World Tent Pegging Federation).

Mohammed bin Issa Al Fairuz, the former chairman of the Oman Equestrian Federation, is the president of the international body and his tireless work is bringing to Oman the world's finest riders, as the nation gears up to host the first-ever World Cup in tent pegging.

Speaking to Times Sport, Mohammed bin Issa Al Fairuz, the ITPF chief, confirmed that the world showpiece of tent pegging will be held in Oman from March 29 to April 4, with competition dates on April 1, 3 and 4.

"Mind you, this is not just an international championship, but the first ever World Cup in tent pegging," he said, adding that the Oman Equestrian Federation is working to make the event a grand affair.

"Top riders from around the world will be coming to take part in the event," said Al Fairuz, who pointed out that ten teams, including Oman, have qualified to compete in the World Cup.

"Two international competitions (qualifiers) were held in Sudan and Pakistan, from which the best teams were identified and drafted into the World Cup. Oman, too, had taken part in the Pakistan leg and had qualified with flying colours," Al Fairuz noted.

"The top five teams from the Sudan event and top five from the Pakistan round will compete for supremacy in Oman. Teams that have qualified are South Africa, Oman, Yemen, Australia, Pakistan, Sudan, Egypt, Iraq, Qatar and Great Britain," said Al Fairuz, who expects that those attending the championship will witness exciting clashes.

The surprising factor, though, is the absence of riders from India, a top tent pegging nation. "There are some internal issues in India and, hence, we will not have them in the World Cup," hinted Al Fairuz.

Logo launchMeanwhile, providing details about the World Cup, Al Fairuz said, "The draw for the horses will be held on March 29 and on March 30, and the official logo of the newly formed International Tent Pegging Federation will be launched at 7pm."

He went on to say that a gala opening ceremony for the World Cup has been planned for March 31, which will be the opening day. The competition proper will begin on April 1 and the finale will be held on April 4. April 2 will be a rest day.

The ITPF chief signed off by saying that more details will be provided during in the coming days.